Monday, October 1, 2007

The Latest From Kiev

We went to the circus on Saturday. It was very well done. The show was more than 2.5 hours and Michael Yan was fascinated with all of it. Saturday night we went out for pizza. Strike two on American food. Burgers and pizza out - vegetables and cereal in. We had a great day and Michael Yan crashed as soon as his head hit the pillow.

The coolest thing happened yesterday. We went to the food court in the mall on the square after church for our daily coffee and muffin. While sitting at the table, a family walked by and said "hello." After they passed, Karen and looked at each other and wondered how they knew we spoke English. Karen thought it was her "USA" socks she was wearing and I thought it might have something to do with the translation book I was reading. After we finished breakfast, we went over to their table to ask how they knew and they said that they recognized us from church. We started talking and learned that Jay, Lori and their three kids are from Conn. and were in Kiev for about two years for Jay's company. It seems that they go to mass, then McDonald's and then to the market every Sunday and end the day with a big barbacue at home. Long story short - they invited Karen, Michael Yan and I to dinner. It was incredible! They have a beautiful home just outside of Kiev complete with 3 car garage, 5 or 6 bedrooms, an indoor pool, etc. Jay, Lori and the kids were so gracious and we enjoyed the night so much. Michael Yan kicked the soccerball, the basketball and even the baseball. He also learned to play on a computer with some of the other kids. After steaks and desert, Jay even pulled out a bottle of single malt scotch. What a gift they gave us. Karen and I talked about it all night when we got home and still today at breakfast and Michael Yan had a blast. Thanks Mary Kate, Maggie, John, Jay and Lori!!!!

We are headed to the US Ebassy for our final interview and to get Michael's visa. Our flight leaves Kiev tomorrow at 11:00 am and gets into JFK around 3:00 if all goes well.

Michael with Jay, Lori and the kids.

4 comments:

cathi said...

Wonderful update. Thanks looking forward to ahving you all home. The rest of your lives will be filled with wonderful firsts. Love, catherine

Kathy and Matt said...

What a great way to have your trip to Ukraine end! Thanks for sharing all the beautiful photos. Loved the sun glasses!
Congrats as you finish your journey and head back home.
Kathy

Pat&Maya said...

Karen, Mike and Michael Yan,
Your journey is so interesting and exciting. This is so cool you met a lot of nice people there. Michael Yan is experiencing and learning so much new now and it’s going to be much more when he’ll start his new school. Hi is a lucky boy now. Hope your flight home would be safe and easy.

Sherry said...

The pictures and words express the joy and everyday learning of being parents! Enjoy every milestone and learn from each setback..the time will go soooo quick! Michael Yan is blessed with a big wonderful, loving family. God Bless you all!